B1verbtravelwork
US/dɪˈleɪ/
UK/dɪˈleɪ/
to make something happen later than planned, or to make someone late
In context
Our flight to Da Nang was delayed for three hours because of the storm.
Many young couples delay having children until they have a stable job.
Don't delay; the early bird discount ends on Friday.
Words that go with delay
verb + noun
- delay a decisionThe board decided to delay a decision until next month.
- delay doingDon't delay doing your taxes until the last day.
- delay paymentSome customers delay payment for months.
adverb + verb
- badly delayedTrains were badly delayed after the heavy rain.
verb + preposition
- delayed byThe project was delayed by a lack of money.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I delayed to reply to her email.Correct: I delayed replying to her email.